Getting to the green light
Small business growth depends on an entrepreneur’s business plan, willingness to work long hours and ability to make a convincing “elevator speech,” or pitch.
Maine has a wealth of pitch competitions that aim to help businesses with a sound product and leadership find capital. Gorham Savings’ LaunchPad, “Greenlight Maine” and Top Gun are just three of the programs that where entrepreneurs can make a name for themselves — and, possibly, walk away with some cash.
One entrepreneur who had success in pitch competitions last year was Eliah Thanhauser, a founder of North Spore Mushroom Co. Thanhauser, who is on the cover, secured $150,000 in prizes, winning two pitch competitions.
But, as Senior Writer Laurie Schreiber shows in her cover story, the process of going through the pitch competitions can get an entrepreneur closer to the sources of funding — whether it’s bankers, economic development organizations or nonprofits. For Thanhauser, winning the pitch competitions provided capital vital to growing his company. But he says honing his pitch was also an important skill to learn. See Page 14.
Most Recent
Most Recent
0 Comments